12ax7's

Of course they are overpriced, especially the ECC803s version, but they sound wonderful all the same! Cheers,

Muralman1, I would assume that your CD player is using the 12AU7's in a buffer circuit, NOT as gain device. A whole world of difference in application/sound!

Wrong, Fatparrot, the tubes ARE the sole gain devices for this player. In fact, they impart a controlling influence on the sound of my otherwise colorless reference system.

There are many audiophiles who will spare no expense for whatever is a hot commodity, like pricey tubes. I just settle for glorious music.

There are even more who buy such tubes in hopes of rescuing their aurally "gifted" component chain. A futile move, in my experience.

Telefunken ECC83/12AX7, are good. But so are Amperex Bugle Boys, Mullard CV4004, and for that matter, Sylvania Black Plate 12AX7's. They're just different sounding. In the right system, to the right tastes, all of them will produce magic. Telefunkens, are smooth, rich, warm tubes, with a rounded bass. Amperex, are robust, dynamic tubes, with an excellent bass. The Sylvania's are lively, not as rich sounding, tubes. So only with system, and personal tastes matching, will you acheive, the magic, you are looking for.

Fletchj is right on the money. I prefer the rich, warm sound of the Teles, personally. I've tried all the other mentioned above and I fully agree with Fletch's description. Cheers,